chapter 25

Jay-Jay's Passing and Legacy

• Jay-Jay is taken away in an ambulance, covered with a white sheet.
• Alex feels empty, reminiscent of the empty barn.
• Remembers Jay-Jay's lesson: Never put an even number of flowers in a pot.
• Jay-Jay shared the belief about an owl hidden on a US dollar bill, possibly symbolizing the Bohemian Society or warnings.
• Jay-Jay dismissed such beliefs as games, emphasizing basic human needs.

Discoveries After Jay-Jay's Death

• The police found four envelopes: one for Alex, one for Lara (dated August 9th), one for Mara, and a copy of Jay-Jay's will.

Alex's Letter from Jay-Jay

• Jay-Jay expresses gratitude to Alex for sharing his life with him.
• Acknowledges Alex's acceptance and enjoyment of simple pleasures like fires, food, and music.
• Thanks Alex for embracing his interests, including owls.
• Clarifies that Alex never replaced his daughter but had a unique place in his life.
• Jay-Jay hopes Alex can be self-reliant and observant like an owl.
• Urges Alex to be awake, cautious, and to live and love fully.
• Appreciates Alex's respect for his decision to pass on.

Jay-Jay's Bequests

• Leaves Alex money for studies and the barn as a home.
• Asks Alex to deliver his daughter's last letter on her birthday, August 9th.

Uli's Comfort

• Uli, the owl, lands beside Alex, seemingly understanding the news.
• Uli dances to comfort Alex, then perches on his arm, triggering more tears.